• LPA participates in the creation of Andalucía´s first federation of real estate associations, scheduled for the 11th of May 2026, to regulate the sector and establish an official register of agents 

• Specialist training and client experience are emerging as key strategic pillars to raise professional standards across the Costa del Sol 

• LPA is negotiating a pioneering framework agreement with property developers from Málaga to Sotogrande to promote best practice and protect buyers 

• With 106 active members and the goal of reaching 120 in 2026, the association is expanding its territorial influence with a recruitment event in Málaga on the 3rd of June 

Marbella, 20th of April 2026- The real estate sector on the Costa del Sol is experiencing a moment of profound transformation. International demand shows no signs of slowing down, prices remain at historically high levels, and the buyer profile, increasingly demanding, more informed, and more global, is redefining the rules of the game. In this context, The Leading Property Agents of Spain (LPA), the association that brings together the region’s leading real estate agencies, has launched a 2026 agenda that goes far beyond typical growth objectives: it aims to build the regulatory and institutional foundations that the sector has needed for years. 

The roadmap has been shaped through strategic breakfasts that the association holds regularly with its members. These bilingual meetings conducted in Spanish and English have become a benchmark in the sector for analysing the market, sharing knowledge, and anticipating trends. The last one addressed the evolution of the sales and letting market, legal updates affecting tourist rentals, the growing impact of artificial intelligence, and the potential of MLS (multiple listing systems) to support collaborative marketing between agencies. The consensus was unanimous: the sector is advancing, but it needs structure.

“The Costa del Sol is one of the most dynamic and competitive real estate markets in the world, but to consolidate that position in the long term, we need clear rules, high-quality training, and professionals who inspire trust. That is the kind of project that we are building: a sector in which the client is protected, the agent is qualified, and the developers operate with genuine guarantees”, said Álvaro Botella Fernández, President of LPA. 

Artificial intelligence and training: the bet on the qualified agent

Artificial intelligence and digitalisation play a central role in the debate. AI tools are simplifying tasks that previously consumed hours of work (automated valuations, document management, demand analysis), and more advanced agencies are already integrating them into their daily operations. However, experts at the LPA breakfast agreed that technology does not replace the agent: it enhances them, provided that they have the appropriate training to use it effectively. That is where the association wants to make a difference. 

The association continues to work on a training program that aims to become the benchmark standard for the sector on the Costa del Sol. It is designed in collaboration with the national federation and adapted to the specific characteristics of the local market, with predominantly international demand and operations that require legal, fiscal, and commercial knowledge in several languages. The objective, in addition to training professionals, is to define who can carry out the activity with real guarantees for the client. 

The birth of the Andalucían real estate federation: before and after

This regulatory ambition finds its most ambitious expression in what is set to be the institutional milestone of the year: the establishment, on the 11th of May, of the Federation of Real Estate Associations of Andalusia. The project, which will bring together the most important associations from across the Andalusia region, is born with the explicit mandate to promote sector regulation and implement a formal registry of agents. Belonging to this registry will require meeting a demanding criterion: certified training, civil liability insurance, physical presence, and a variable professional track record. 

“What is signed in Andalusia in May will mark a before and after for the sector”, says the president of LPA

The new federation will work in close coordination with the API School of Andalusia, with whom it is planned to sign a collaboration agreement that unites the efforts of both institutions on a common front. The agreement, which will be negotiated after the formal establishment of the organisation, aims to avoid duplication and increase the capacity for dialogue with public administrations in order to definitively implement a regulatory framework for the sector in the region. 

Framework agreement with developers: structure and guarantees from Málaga to Sotogrande

In parallel with this institutional work, LPA is advancing one of its projects with the greatest direct impact on the market: an agreement with real estate developers active on the Costa del Sol, from Málaga to Sotogrande. The negotiation, which is expected to be formally presented to developers in the next few months, looks to establish structured commercialisation channels, guarantees for agencies and clients, and an incentives system for developers who sign the contract. The mechanism will also include control tools to address the bad practices that still erode the confidence of the end buyer. 

New board of directors, 120 members, and expansion into the Málaga capital 

Following the celebration of its general assembly, LPA now has 106 active members and has set the goal of reaching 120 members by the end of 2026. The association is chaired by Álvaro Botella Fernández, and its new board of directors is made up of Mia Pearlman (Affinity Elite), José Carlos León (Nvoga Inversiones), Christopher Clover (Panorama Properties), Mariano Ariel Beristain (DMP Realty), Setareh Mohregi Shakiba (Lucas Fox DILS), Javier Pérez de Vargas Ruedas (Pérez de Vargas Abogados), Marina Nitzak (LMG Real Estate), Brice Benarroch Mennessons (Benarroch Real Estate), and Sean Woolley (Cloud Nine Consulting). 

To achieve the growth objective, the association has turned its focus to the capital Málaga, an expanding market that has historically remained outside the margins of the coastal corridor dynamics. On June 3, an event specifically aimed at attracting new agencies will be held in Málaga, representing a strategic step for LPA as it expands its reach to the provincial capital. This initiative responds to Málaga’s growing prominence as one of the main business, technological, and creative hubs in southern Europe, consolidating itself as a particularly attractive environment for the development of new professional synergies and collaboration opportunities. With the emerging Andalusian federation, agreements with developers under negotiation, and a training program in development, LPA is approaching 2026 as the year in which the professionalisation of the Andalusian real estate sector ceases to be a goal and becomes a reality. 

ABOUT LPA

Founded in June 2020 by a group of professionals with extensive experience on the Costa del Sol, The Leading Property Agents of Spain (LPA) currently brings together more than one hundred companies in the real estate sector. Its mission is to promote a transparent, professional, and client-oriented market, encouraging collaboration between agencies, technological adoption, and the continuous improvement of service. 

www.lpaspain.com

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• Karim Rebeiz (18), an IE University student, was awarded first place of the first edition of the MEC with his project F925, a clothes brand inspired by entrepreneurship, which already has a TikTok account with a community of more than 250,000 followers. The prize included 3000 euros in seed funding and 6 months of mentorship with Tech2Impact.

• Jonas Tellander (cofounder of Storytel), Linda Höglund (CFO Job&Talent, ex-Goldman Sachs and Klarna), and Andreas Mihalovits (Global Super Angels Club, 180+ startup investments) evaluated the projects with the same judgment that they would apply in a real investment round

• Based on references such as Shark Tank, Junior Achievement, and DECA of EE.UU, The Pool of Talents is unique in the Spanish business-education landscape: an ecosystem founded by and for students that connects the classroom and the business world with international standards.

MARBELLA, 11th of April 2026- What until now has only existed in Silicon Valley, Boston, and New York has just touched down in the Costa del Sol. The Pool of Talents, the first student-led initiative that connects young people from Marbella with the real business world, celebrated its official launch this Saturday with the first edition of the Marbella Youth Entrepreneurship Cup (MEC), an unprecedented entrepreneurship competition in Spain that puts students aged 16 to 21 in front of real investors to defend their business projects in three minutes.

The event, held in The Pool Marbella- located on the first floor of El Corte Inglés El Capricho- brought together more than a hundred attendees, including entrepreneurs, representatives from the education sector, international investors, and families. The event also featured the presence of Vanessa Ortiz de Zárate Galeras, councillor for the Nueva Andalucía district in the Marbella City Council, who has supported the initiative since its early stages.

A MODEL THAT COMES FROM AMERICA

The Pool of Talents draws directly from the Anglo-Saxon entrepreneurial culture. Its format combines the philosophy of the popular TV show Shark Tank- adapted in Spain as Diners- with the youth talent acceleration model promoted by organisations such as Junior Achievement, DECA, and Y Combinator in the United States. In this context, the competition is not just a contest: it is a high-demand environment in which participants receive real mentorship, face tough questions, and present before a panel of investors that makes no concessions. 

The initiative was born in February 2024, by two students in Marbella, Carlota Pulido and Yuval Arbel, who, when trying to find internships in their area, encountered a complete lack of opportunities for young people despite the more than 24 international schools present in the area. Their response was to create an ecosystem that did not exist. 

“We are creating opportunities so that students are able to step out of the classroom and enter the real world where they can find their feet. Conventional education is no longer designed for the speed and complexity of today’s world. The Pool of Talents is the answer to this gap”, said Shahrzad Rostamian, CEO of The Pool of Talents.

THE GRAND FINAL: EIGHT TEAMS, THREE MINUTES, ONE WINNER

After weeks of mentoring and preparation, eight finalist teams took to the Pool Marbella stage to present their business projects before a demanding jury of three figures of international reference:

• Jonas Tellander, co-founder of Storytel, the main audiobook platform in Europe with more than 2.5 million subscribers and available in more than 40 languages.
• Linda Höglund, CFO of Job&Talent, with experience at Goldman Sachs, Klarna, and Electronic Arts.
• Andreas Mihalovits, co-founder of Global Super Angels Club and founder of Marbella Tech Angels, with more than 180 startup investments in his portfolio. 

Each team was given exactly three minutes to present their idea, followed by a tough round of questions from the jury. The evaluation criteria (innovations, market potential, team capability, and ability to respond under pressure) replicated the standards of any real investment process. 

Karim Rebeiz (18), IE University student, was awarded first place of the first edition of the MEC, which included 3000 euros of seed funding and six months of mentorship through the Tech2Impact Edge program, an accelerator with a global network of more than 1000 innovators present across 60 countries. His project, F925, a fashion brand inspired by entrepreneurship, also stands out for its digital traction, with a community of more than 250,000 followers on TikTok.

Second place went to StyleBot, developed by Naiya Belén, Tedde Van Den Berg y Ainara Miqueo Olavarría (17), Atlas American School of Malaga students. Their proposal: an AI-powered styling app that allows users to optimize their wardrobes using clothes they already own, aligning with new, more sustainable, and more efficient consumption trends.

MORE THAN A COMPETITION: THE LAUNCH OF AN ECOSYSTEM

While the MEC marked the official launch of The Pool of Talents as an organisation, the initiative has in fact been active in Marbella for over a year with a model that goes far beyond one-off events. The platform is built on three pillars: potential, preparation, and opportunity. It offers both public programs open to all students – such as workshops, case competitions, and the MEC – as well as exclusive opportunities for partner schools, including internships, company visits, mentorship access, and a yearly schedule of activities.

Their academic partners include IE University and Marbella International University Centre (MIUC), as well as leading schools such as The British International School of Marbella and EiC. On the corporate side, the event was supported by Cuatrecasas, a leading law firm with more than 100 years of history, Saboris, a catering company committed to healthy nutrition in educational and corporate settings, and The Pool Marbella, which provided both the venue and access to its entrepreneurial community. 

“The Pool of Talents is the infrastructure that Marbella needs to connect young talent with the real world. We have built a model that works because it is designed by students and for students, with the rigor and standards that today’s market demands,” said Carlos Bazaco Cruces, COO of The Pool of Talents, during the event. 

FIRST IN SPAIN, A BENCHMARK IN EUROPE

The Pool of Talents positions itself as the first non-profit community-based initiative of these characteristics in Spain: an ecosystem that develops young talent founded by students with an association-based structure that integrates the logic of the American business world- pitching before investors, acceleration mentorship, multi-sector exposure- within the educational environment of the Costa del Sol.

With more than 24 international schools in Marbella and a high-income community with a global profile, the city offers unique conditions for this model to scale. The founders are already working on expanding their programs for the next academic year, with new university and corporate partnerships on the horizon.

ABOUT THE POOL OF TALENTS

The Pool of Talents is an association founded in February 2024 by students Carlota Pulido and Yuval Arbel with the aim of connecting young people between the ages of 16 and 21 with real corporate experience. It operates as a non-profit organisation and collaborates with universities, international schools, and business leaders in the region to offer internships, competitions, inspirational talks, and specialised mentoring. Their mission: to prepare high-potential young people for a world that conventional education is not designed to address. 

www.thepooloftalents.com

For more information:

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Marbella, 23rd March – Artificial intelligence is increasingly transforming every sector of the global economy. After revolutionising industries such as marketing, finance and medicine, it is now beginning to make headway with one of the markets that traditionally has evolved more slowly in terms of technology: real estate.

Although artificial intelligence is already transforming multiple industries, its application to the property search in Spain continues to be limited. Day to day, most agencies continue to rely on traditional filtering systems based on location, type, size and property price. However, the emergence of new AI-based tools is starting to set the course for the next evolution of the sector.

In Marbella, one of Europe’s most dynamic luxury residential destinations, the company Costa Sunsets has implemented a pioneering AI-powered property search engine that allows users to find homes simply by describing how they want to live. For the first time, a real estate agency on the Costa del Sol is setting a new benchmark for innovation in Marbella’s property market.

The tool works in a similar way to the conversational systems popularised by platforms such as ChatGPT. Instead of using technical filters (such as price, square metres or number of bedrooms), users can describe in natural language the type of home they are looking for with phrases such as: “a modern villa with sea views, a lot of light and close to the beach in Marbella”. Based on this description, the AI analyses and cross-references the information with hundreds of available properties on its platform. It does this by interpreting both text and images to identify those that best match the search, even when the buyer is unfamiliar with typical real estate terminology.

According to Costa Sunsets, this pioneering idea on the Costa del Sol aims to adapt property searches to the way buyers actually think. “Artificial intelligence is changing the way people discover information, and the real estate market is no exception. Our goal is to simplify the home search and make it far more intuitive. Instead of browsing through hundreds of listings and filters, buyers can describe the home they imagine in a conversation, and the technology takes care of finding the properties that truly match that lifestyle.”

Marbella, one of Europe’s most dynamic property markets

The arrival of artificial intelligence tools in the real estate sector coincides with a period of strong growth in the residential market on the Costa del Sol.

According to industry data, Marbella remains one of the luxury property destinations with the highest international demand in Europe, with buyers mainly coming from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, Nordic countries and the Middle East.

The appeal of the climate, quality of life and the growing range of high-end services have made the city a global residential destination. In some prime market segments, the price of luxury villas in Marbella has risen significantly in recent years, driven by international demand and the scarcity of land in exclusive locations.

The global proptech race

The integration of artificial intelligence into the real estate sector forms part of a broader phenomenon: the rise of proptech, the ecosystem of technology companies transforming the way properties are bought, sold and managed.

Cities such as Dubai, Miami and Lisbon have become international benchmarks in adopting technological solutions linked to the property market. From digital investment platforms to data analysis tools and advanced virtual viewings, the sector is undergoing a profound transformation.

In this context, Marbella is also beginning to position itself as a particularly receptive environment for innovation.

For Costa Sunsets, the international nature of the local market encourages the adoption of these types of solutions. “Marbella and the Costa del Sol are becoming a meeting point between technological innovation and the international property market. It is a global, dynamic market that is very open to adopting new digital solutions,” states the company’s CEO.

The future of property search

Although artificial intelligence is already used in many areas of the real estate sector, from property valuation to market analysis, its application to property search is still at an early stage, and this is where Costa Sunsets innovation lies.

However, experts agree that the evolution of algorithms will allow the creation of systems increasingly capable of understanding personal preferences, lifestyle and buyer context.

If this trend continues, searching for a home could become a process much closer to a conversation than to filling in a form.

About Costa Sunsets

Costa Sunsets Developments is a real estate agency specialising in exclusive properties on the Costa del Sol. Founded by Bianca Omloo and her son, Omèr Frijns, the company combines Bianca’s experience in the high-end residential segment with Omèr’s innovative, client-focused vision, representing a new generation of real estate professionals in the region.

Originally from the Netherlands, the family moved from Maastricht to the Costa del Sol during Omèr’s childhood, establishing both a personal and professional connection with this market. Based in Marbella, Costa Sunsets offers a selection of high-end properties, from villas to contemporary residences in some of the most sought-after locations along the coast, as well as complementary services including relocation, financial consultancy and personalised advice for international buyers.

Bianca Omloo’s track record, with over 20 years of experience in Marbella and more than €300 million in property sales, has helped establish the firm as a benchmark in the luxury segment. Recently, the agency has been recognised at the Property Awards, winning Best Real Estate Agent Spain and Best Property Agency Spain 2025/26.

https://costasunsets.com

La entrada COSTA SUNSETS launches in Marbella a property search engine powered by artificial intelligence that can interpret what buyer wants se publicó primero en MN Comunicación.

Marbella, 20^th March- The German premium appliance company Miele participates for the first time in Marbella Design and Art Fair, one of the main interior design and contemporary art events in southern Europe. It is doing so with “Timeless Design”, an installation created by interior designer Helena Rocha where the brand will present its new collection of integrated appliances in a Pearl Beige finish. The installation also features Cosentino stone, an international benchmark in architectural and design surfaces, reinforcing the dialogue between technology, materiality and interior architecture that underpins the entire project.

“Timeless Design” brings together appliances, materials and integration solutions in a space designed to showcase the relationship between technology, interior architecture and kitchen design. Cosentino stone plays a central role in the installation, alongside a selection of Miele’s integrated appliances.

Technology and design in dialogue

Visitors will be able to discover some of the German brand’s latest innovations, including a combination steam oven, a multifunction oven, a vacuum sealing drawer and a wine conditioning unit, all from the ArtLine range, characterised by its handleless design and presented in the new Pearl Beige finish.

The Pearl Beige color is inspired by natural tones such as marble, sand and polished stone. According to the brand, its development responds to the growing demand for warm, neutral finishes in contemporary kitchen projects. In addition, this colour has been awarded the 2023 National Design Award.

The installation also incorporates an induction hob with an integrated extractor in a matte finish, a solution that removes the need for conventional extractor hoods and allows for greater integration of kitchen elements within the space.

 A Spanish premiere: the new MasterCool III refrigerator

During Marbella Design & Art Fair, Miele is also presenting in Spain, for the first time, the new MasterCool III refrigerator, whose official launch on the national market isn’t scheduled until this Spring. This new generation of the brand’s high-end refrigeration range combines design, smart technology and advanced preservation solutions to deliver a distinctive experience in the contemporary kitchen. Its redesigned stainless-steel interior, next-generation LED lighting, M Touch Pro interface and connectivity via Miele@home , with features such as FoodView, reinforce its innovative character. It also includes MasterFresh Pro, a system that keeps food fresh for up to five times longer, better preserving nutrients and flavour.

Miele and the rise of residential luxury on the Costa del Sol

Miele’s presence at Marbella Design & Art Fair reflects the company’s growing focus on the Costa del Sol, one of Europe’s most dynamic premium residential markets.

In recent years, the German firm has recorded a 40% increase in sales in the province of Málaga since 2022, largely driven by the boom in high-end real estate developments. The company expects to grow its business in the region by an additional 50% by 2027.

To meet the demands of the luxury property sector — where the kitchen has become one of the key spaces in the home — Miele has established Miele Project Business, a division specialising in equipping residential developments with high-end appliances designed to integrate seamlessly into high-level architectural projects.

On the Costa del Sol, the company has taken part in notable residential developments such as Torre del Río-Torre Living in Málaga, designed by Estudio Lamela; Erasur Emare in Marbella, with architecture by Barmi Arquitectos; and The View Marbella, a 110-home development promoted by Wilma Sierra Blanca.

“The demand for premium appliances in new construction is growing significantly in destinations such as the Costa del Sol, where developers, architects and interior designers are looking for solutions that combine technology, durability and design,” explains Álvaro Palomino, Head of Miele Project Business.

The “Timeless Design” installation precisely reflects this dialogue between technology and interior architecture which defines Miele’s positioning in the luxury segment.

About Miele

Miele is the world’s leading manufacturer of premium household appliances, renowned for their high quality, modern design and advanced technology. Founded in Germany in 1899, the family-owned company has always adhered to its philosophy “Immer Besser” (“forever better”), offering the highest-quality products through innovative machines tested for a lifespan equivalent to 20 years.

With more than 125 years of history, Miele is synonymous with innovation, durability and sustainability. The company has been operating in Spain since 1966 and currently employs over 200 people, with six Miele Experience Centres located in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao and Valencia.

On the Costa del Sol, the company operates through a strong network of specialist appliance distributors and kitchen design studios, consolidating its position as a key technological partner in the development of luxury residential projects.

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Marbella, 13th March 2026- Marbella will once again position itself on the international design map with the celebration of the eighth edition of Marbella Design and Art Fair, which will take place from the 19th- 29th of March in the Palacio de Ferias, Exposiciones and Congresos Adolfo Suárez. For eleven days, the event will bring together some of the most prominent names in interior design, arquitecture and contemporary art in a large exhibition route that will turn the venue into a creative hub where innovation, aesthetics and trends unite.

Established as one of the most contemporary design events in Spain, the fair will once again bring together interior designers, architects, artists and international brands, who will create temporary spaces created especially for this edition.

In total, more than fifty exhibitions will make up the route, offering an immersive experience that will allow visitors to discover the latest trends in interior design, architecture, materials, technology and art.

Visitors will be able to explore proposals ranging from residential and hotel interior design to innovative solutions for designing contemporary spaces. In addition, there will be ten spaces dedicated exclusively to product exhibitions, where various firms will present their latest collections and developments.

Guest interior designers and studios

For this new edition, Marbella Design and Art Fair will feature the participation of some of the most interesting studios and professionals that the field currently has to offer. Among the confirmed interior designers are Helena Rocha, Estudio Mariso Gallo, Estudio Nina Dubarry, Estudio Silvia Trigueros, José Arroyo, Magda Kujawa, Paralela and Welcome Design. All of which will put together exclusive spaces where they explore new ways of living by experimenting with materials, light, art and architecture.

International brands and cutting-edge design

Alongside the interior designers, the fair will feature the participation of leading international brands in design, technology and lifestyle, including Bang & Olufsen, Miele, Technogym, Cosentino, Villeroy & Boch, Natuzzi Italia, Bosch, Hästens, Kaldewei, Inalco and Iris Ceramica. There will also be numerous companies that specialize in surfaces, furniture, lighting, technological solutions and innovative materials for contemporary interior design.

Contemporary art in dialogue with design

The exhibition will be complemented by the presence of artists and contemporary galleries such as Anna Burko, Anna Westerlund, Daniel Valencia, Ronald Infante and Excellence Art Gallery. They will bring an artistic dimension to the overall experience and strengthen the dialogue between art, design and architecture, one of the defining elements of the event.

Program of activities

In addition to the exhibition, Marbella Design and Art Fair will feature a program of activities that will include openings, professional meetings and special events linked to design, architecture, and contemporary creativity.

• Thursday 19th March- 5 pm

Official opening of Marbella Design and Art Fair 2026 in the Palacio de Congresos de Marbella, with the opening of the exhibition and the presence of interior designers, participating brands, industry professionals and institutional representatives.

• Friday 20th March- 9:30 pm

Marbella Design and Art charity event at the Hotel Don Carlos, a special evening benefiting Fundatul, bringing together design professionals, collaboration companies, cultural guests and event attendees for a night dedicated to design and social commitment

• Tuesday 24th March- 2 pm

Talk on urban planning and city development, by the councillor of Urbanismo del Ayuntamiento de Marbella, José Eduardo Díaz, which will take place in the auditorium of the Fair at the Palacio de Congresos. This talk will address the urban evolution of the city and the role of design, arquitecture and territorial development planning.

A meeting point for professionals and design enthusiasts

In previous editions, Marbella Design and Art Fair has welcomed more than 16,000 visitors and brought together over 150 exhibitors, establishing itself as an essential platform for discovering trends, fostering professional collaborations and bringing contemporary design closer to the general public.

The fair is aimed at both industry professionals- architects, interior designers, real estate developers and businesses- and at lovers of design, art and architecture, who will be able to discover innovative projects and new brands in an environment that combines creativity, design and the Mediterranean lifestyle.

In this way, Marbella Design and Art Fair once again places Marbella on the international design map, transforming el Palacio de Congresos into a true meeting point for eleven days where talent, innovation and contemporary aesthetics come together.

Useful information:

Dates: from the 19th-29th March 2026

Location: Palacio de Ferias, Exposiciones y Congresos Adolfo Suárez, Marbella

• Ticket available from:

https://marbelladesignart.com/entradas/

• Fundatul charity event:

https://www.monsterticket.com/evento/marbella-design-art-fiesta-de-apertura-2026

La entrada Marbella will host from the 19th-29th of March the eighth edition of the Marbella Design and Art Fair, one of the biggest contemporary design events in Spain se publicó primero en MN Comunicación.

Marbella, 26th January 2026 — The surgical group Facialteam consolidates its international leadership in highly specialised medical tourism with the inauguration of Naghoi, the first post-operative recovery centre in Europe designed especially for trans and gender-diverse patients pursuing facial gender-affirming surgery. The centre, located in Estepona just eight minutes from the hospital where the surgeries are performed, confirms the strong international demand for this unique care model.

Naghoi was created as a natural extension of Facialteam’s comprehensive surgical model. Founded in Marbella in 2010, Facialteam is now recognised as one of the world’s leading references in Facial Feminisation Surgery (FFS) and Facial Gender-Affirming Surgery. Naghoi represents the natural evolution of Facialteam’s holistic philosophy: far from operating as a conventional medical lodging facility, it is defined as a pioneering recovery sanctuary—an intimate, safe and respectful space designed to complete the care cycle initiated by Facialteam. The centre encourages the presence of companions and promotes a community-based recovery experience, with a proven positive impact on recovery times and patients’ emotional stability.

A pioneering model born in Marbella, with global impact

Ninety per cent of Facialteam’s patients come from abroad, mainly from the United Kingdom, North America, other European countries and Australia, spanning a broad adult age range.

The average stay at the centre ranges between 10 and 14 days, a period considered necessary for optimal recovery both physically and emotionally. With a total surface area of 2,179 m², including 800 m² dedicated to wellbeing, Naghoi features 18 rooms specially designed for recovery, with reclining beds and state-of-the-art home automation. The centre also offers a spa, wellness areas, gardens, a swimming pool, 24/7 medical care, group sessions and specialised psychological support, with a team that includes two clinical psychologists.

Facialteam: medical excellence and scientific leadership

Facialteam is made up of a medical team of 11 specialised surgeons and a multidisciplinary group of more than 80 professionals, operating under a dual executive management structure. Since its founding in Marbella, the group has supported thousands of patients from over 70 nationalities, positioning Spain as a strategic hub for gender-affirmation medicine at an international level. Facial feminisation surgery aims to soften or modify features traditionally associated with a masculine physiognomy in order to achieve a more feminine and harmonious appearance, with a direct impact on patients’ emotional, social and professional wellbeing.

“Facial gender-affirmation surgery is not just a set of surgical procedures; it is a key tool for reducing dysphoria, improving gender identification and, as a result, enhancing our patients’ personal, social and professional wellbeing,” explains Dr Luis Capitán, co-founder and surgeon at Facialteam.

For his part, Dr Daniel Simon, also a co-founder of the group, underlines the importance of the post-operative phase: “Medical outcomes depend to a great extent on the recovery environment. With Naghoi, we have created a space that protects, supports and cares for the patient during one of the most sensitive stages of the entire process”.

Business innovation with local roots

Naghoi is led by Carlos Martín, CEO of the company, who has been involved in the initiative since its conception. Martín has overseen the centre’s comprehensive development, from the design and construction phase through to its launch and current operations, consolidating an innovative and highly specialised care model that reinforces Facialteam’s commitment to medical excellence and holistic patient care.

Alongside him, the project also benefits from the participation of Cristóbal Parra, Centre Director, a professional linked to hotel development and innovation initiatives on the Costa del Sol, whose incorporation strengthens the centre’s strategic vision from a business perspective.

The team also includes Sophia Santiago, Guest Experience Manager, a trans woman who returned to Spain after working in the hospitality sector in Switzerland to join this Facialteam initiative. Her involvement reflects both a commitment to professional growth and a personal dedication to supporting her own community, contributing—together with other team members from the community—to creating an atmosphere of calm, safety and support during a particularly sensitive stage for people in transition.

“Naghoi represents an innovative model based on specialisation, excellence and the full integration of the care process. This area offers the ideal conditions to lead projects of advancement in healthcare with international projection,” states Carlos Martín.

In an international context marked by tensions and setbacks in the rights of the trans community, the opening of Naghoi reinforces the role of the Costa del Sol and Spain as a safe, advanced and inclusive destination in the field of specialised healthcare.

About Facialteam

Founded in Marbella in 2010, Facialteam is an internationally pioneering medical company specializing in facial gender-affirming surgery. With a team of 11 specialized surgeons and over 80 professionals, Facialteam serves patients from more than 70 countries. The group specialises in facial gender affirming surgery, procedures primarily aimed at trans women experiencing gender dysphoria, a medically recognized condition describing the incongruence between a person’s gender identity and certain physical traits, particularly facial features.

www.facialteam.eu

About Naghoi

Naghoi is the first post-operative recovery center in Spain specifically designed for trans patients, with a holistic approach encompassing comprehensive recovery after such a significant stage as facial gender-affirming surgery for a trans patients. The holistic approach of Naghoi encompasses the recovery care essential after facial gender affirming surgery, significant for the patient in transition.

From this perspective, Naghoi defines itself as a Recovery sanctuary—a safe, specialized, and humane space designed to provide care, support, and guidance during a period of personal transformation.

Located in Estepona, Naghoi is an integral part of the group’s medical protocol and offers a holistic recovery experience that combines clinical care, well-being, and personalized support.

www.naghoi.com

For further information:

TEBA SILES

Responsable de Prensa

prensa@mncomunicacion.com

www.mncomunicacion.com

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However, Marbella’s popularity also presents challenges. The large number of tourists, especially in summer, puts pressure on the environment. Waste is increasing and water consumption is increasing at a time when the region often suffers from drought conditions. These issues make it important for the city to think carefully about sustainability. Traffic congestion is another common problem during the high season, making it difficult for both residents and tourists to get around. In addition, traffic problems contribute to increased pollution levels, which further damages the environment.

Tourism can also affect the traditional character of Marbella. As some areas change to suit visitors’ tastes, they risk becoming overly commercial and less reflective of the local culture. Restaurants and shops may cater more to tourists than to long-standing traditions, which can gradually weaken the sense of authentic identity in certain neighborhoods.

Marbella is much more than a holiday destination: its real strength lies in the booming residential tourism sector, which has attracted families, professionals and retirees to acquire a second and even a third home. Many residents choose to spend several months a year in Marbella because it offers a unique combination of Mediterranean lifestyle, modern infrastructure and international connectivity. Families, in particular, benefit from a wide selection of prestigious international schools offering British, American, German and Scandinavian study programmes, making extended stays practical and attractive. The region’s health services, various sports facilities and year-round outdoor activities make it even more suitable for extended stays.

Connectivity is another important advantage. Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, currently the third busiest in Spain by number of passengers, offers direct flights to major European hubs and an increasing number of long-haul destinations, allowing owners to easily get around or receive visits from family and friends. Add to this Marbella’s stable climate, varied dining offerings, great sense of security, and cosmopolitan community that makes newcomers feel instantly at home, and these factors explain why so many people decide not only to visit Marbella, but to live here for much of the year.

Marbella’s appeal goes far beyond its reputation as a tourist destination, as it is also a thriving place for permanent residents and holiday home owners. The combination of dynamic tourism and residential life generates economic growth, cultural exchange and a cosmopolitan lifestyle, while posing challenges for the environment, infrastructure and the preservation of local character. Finding a balance that benefits both visitors and residents, fosters employment and community, and protects the city’s natural and cultural heritage is essential to ensure that Marbella remains a dynamic, attractive and sustainable destination for years to come.

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• The Fonda Heritage Hotel is home to the world’s largest gingerbread Christmas tree, designed by artist Debbie Wingham.

• The hotel has been awarded the Michelin Key for its exceptional hospitality and recognised by AMEX as one of the venues that enrich the gastronomic scene in its Trending Destinations 2026.

• La Fonda consolidates its position as the cultural and gastronomic epicentre of the city with a programme of festive events and special menus throughout the season.

Marbella, 24th November 2025. – La Fonda Heritage Hotel, a member of Relais & Châteaux and a benchmark for haute cuisine in Marbella, celebrated this afternoon the official lighting of the world’s largest cookie Christmas tree, a monumental work created by renowned British artist Debbie Wingham, in collaboration with her new artisan bakery brand, Crumbz Cookies.

The event, presided over by Rubén Sánchez, General Director of Trade, Tourism and Events Promotion for San Pedro Alcántara, alongside Carmine Sacco, General Manager of the hotel, and Cristina Paraja, Director of Operations, officially inaugurated the Christmas season at the iconic establishment in the Old Town.

With nearly 1,000 handmade cookies suspended from a structure over two metres high, the tree designed by Debbie Wingham, internationally known as the Countess of Confection, stands in the heart of La Fonda as an ode to imagination and baking tradition.

The aroma of cinnamon, ginger and cloves envelops the interior of the hotel, creating a unique multisensory experience. Among the pieces on display are classic gingerbread men, stars, trees and Linzer cookies, along with exclusive creations from the Crumbz line, such as the Sprinkle Piñata, the Mint Chocolate Fondant and the OG Cookie Cake.

During the ceremony, Rubén Sánchez highlighted “the role of La Fonda as a symbol of Marbella’s new splendour, a city that combines history, gastronomic excellence and creativity, attracting artists and visitors from all over the world”. He also congratulated the hotel team on the recent award of the Michelin Key, the distinction with which the Michelin Guide recognises exceptional hotels for their outstanding hospitality, a milestone that further consolidates La Fonda’s position.

In the same vein, Cristina Paraja pointed out that “the hotel has also recently been recognised as one of the venues that add value to the local gastronomic scene among the destinations selected by AMEX (American Express) in its Trending Destinations 2026 list, reinforcing its relevance and prestige on the international scene”.

For his part, Carmine Sacco, general manager of the hotel, pointed out that “this tree is more than a work of art: it represents the spirit of collaboration, the passion for craftsmanship and the magic that we want to share with Marbella every Christmas. La Fonda is a meeting point between tradition and innovation”.

The event, held from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., brought together more than 80 guests, including local authorities, prominent figures from Marbella society, businesspeople, friends and regular customers of the hotel, who wanted to accompany the La Fonda Heritage Hotel team at the official start of the Christmas season. The event culminated with the lighting of the Christmas tree, an emotional moment that filled the hotel atrium with light and festive spirit, transforming it for one night into the epicentre of Christmas magic in Marbella.

“Every event at La Fonda seeks to tell a story. This Christmas tree is our way of celebrating the beauty of sharing and continuing to put our hotel on the international map of excellence”, concluded Cristina Paraja, director of operations at La Fonda.

Seasonal events: La Fonda, the epicentre of Christmas celebrations

La Fonda Heritage Hotel continues to establish itself as one of the leading leisure and gastronomic destinations in Marbella with an events calendar that celebrates diversity and the international festive spirit.

La Fonda restaurant, under the direction of chef Jorge González Carmona, presents a menu that blends tradition, creativity and local produce, with the following schedule for the festive season:

• Thanksgiving (27th November): set menu for €70, available all day, paying tribute to Marbella’s multiculturalism and American cuisine reinterpreted with La Fonda’s signature style. (No à la carte menu will be served on this day.)
• Christmas Eve (24th December): special menu for €155, with dinner from 7.30 pm and live music.
• Christmas Day (25th December): à la carte service at midday from 1 p.m., accompanied by a performance by Vintage Experience.
• New Year’s Eve (31st December): set menu for €385, with dinner from 7.30 p.m., live music and DJ to see out the year.
• New Year’s Day (1st January): à la carte lunch from 1 p.m., accompanied by live music.

The restaurant also offers special menus for groups and companies, with different options ranging from €55 to €70, drinks included, ideal for celebrating Christmas with friends or toasting with colleagues.

In addition, La Fonda, in collaboration with Marbella Town Council, will celebrate the Festival of Saint Lucia together with the children of Svenska Skolan Marbella, the city’s Swedish school. The event will take place on 13 December, a tradition that lights up the winter with a children’s parade of lights and crowns, symbols of hope and renewal. During the event, spiced mulled wine (glögg) and hot chocolate will be served, while the restaurant will offer a menu inspired by Nordic Christmas cuisine.

About La Fonda Heritage Hotel

In the heart of Marbella’s old town, La Fonda Heritage Hotel combines history, elegance and haute cuisine in a unique setting. A member of Relais & Châteaux, this exclusive 20-room boutique hotel offers a complete sensory experience, with signature cuisine led by chef Jorge González Carmona, based on local and seasonal produce. Its offering is spread across three spaces, each with its own personality — La Fonda Restaurant, Los Patios and La Ermita — as well as the Skybar with views of the old town, and La Bodega, which pays homage to traditional Spanish cuisine. Thanks to its unique atmosphere and versatility, La Fonda is also the perfect venue for private events with character and style.

About Debbie Wingham

Debbie Wingham is one of the world’s most renowned pastry artists. With multiple television series, international collaborations and a strong media presence, she has been named the ‘Countess of Confectionery’ by the Food Network. Her career includes unique creations that have positioned her as a visionary in the art of sugar and luxury confectionery.

About Crumbz Cookies

Crumbz Cookies is the artisan baking company created by British artist Debbie Wingham. Inspired by baking tradition and sustainability, it combines creativity and locally sourced ingredients to offer unique cookies, described by their creator as ‘a cookie that thinks it’s a cake.’ Made without additives and presented in recyclable packaging, Crumbz Cookies reflect the balance between craftsmanship, innovation and gourmet pleasure.

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• The Marbell Centre comes back to life three decades after its closure, initiating a complete urban and commercial transformation in the heart of Marbella.
• Venus Homes opens a 1,600 square metre premises with an investment of one million euros and a team of 14 employees.
• The event was attended by more than 190 guests, including Ángeles Muñoz, Mayor of Marbella, José Luis López ‘El Turronero’, bullfighter Juan José Padilla and local authorities.
• This is the fourth store for the business group formed by Elena Ni, Paco Ye and their partner Luci Haiyan, with a presence in Ubrique and Arcos de la Frontera.

Marbella, 24th November 2025. – The iconic Marbell Centre, one of Marbella’s most renowned commercial buildings during the 1980s, has partially reopened its doors today after being closed for 30 years, marking a milestone for the city and the beginning of a new era for this strategic enclave between Ricardo Soriano, the Paseo Marítimo and Plaza Ramón y Cajal. The reopening begins with the inauguration of Venus Homes, the first premises to join the revitalisation project promoted by businessman José Luis López, known as ‘El Turronero’.

During the opening ceremony, the Mayor of Marbella, Ángeles Muñoz, was in charge of cutting the ribbon, where she congratulated the businessmen for their commitment to the city. The councillor highlighted ‘the courage and effort of those who believe in Marbella and contribute to revitalising such emblematic spaces as this one’, and wished them ‘every success in this new phase, which symbolises the rebirth of a historic building for all residents’.

For his part, the project developer, José Luis López ‘El Turronero’, highlighted the merits of the owners of Venus Homes: “Elena and Paco were the last to sign their contract, yet they were the first to open. This demonstrates their entrepreneurial spirit, their capacity for hard work and their desire to contribute to Marbella”. López also recalled the magnitude of the challenge involved in restoring the Marbell Centre: “It is a very complex project that we have been working on for many years, but we are now in the final stages. In a few months, we will be able to celebrate a grand opening to offer the city a renovated, modern space that is open to everyone”.

More than 190 guests attended the celebration, including businesspeople, authorities and public figures such as bullfighter Juan José Padilla, as well as Turronero himself, whose presence underlined the importance of the event for the local economy. The event marked the official presentation of an ambitious renovation plan that will completely transform the old facilities into a modern, accessible shopping centre adapted to the current needs of residents and visitors.

The new Venus Homes store, located on the ground floor of the building, covers 1,600 square metres and offers a wide-ranging, cross-cutting concept combining decoration, furniture, household items, textiles, bathroom accessories, stationery, toys, gardening, hardware and a selection of leather goods from Ubrique. The opening has involved an investment of €1 million and the creation of 14 jobs, with uninterrupted opening hours from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 22:00.

As part of its commercial strategy, Venus Homes also incorporates an annual membership programme that allows customers to enjoy discounts of between 15% and 35% on selected products in the store by means of a loyalty card available for €50 per year. This initiative seeks to strengthen the relationship with local customers and offer added value in an everyday consumer segment.

The owners of Venus Homes, Elena Ni and Paco Ye, two entrepreneurs based in the Sierra de Cádiz with more than fifteen years of experience in Andalusia, highlighted the importance of being part of this historic moment for the city. “Entering the Marbell Centre was a dream and a challenge. Participating in its rebirth is a unique opportunity for us”, said Elena Ni. For his part, Paco Ye emphasised the potential of the area: “Marbella is a dynamic city, full of life and with extraordinary commercial prospects. This location represents a decisive step in our growth”.

Venus Homes’ participation in the new Marbell Centre has been made possible thanks to the close personal and business relationship they have with José Luis López (El Turronero), who promoted their involvement in the project. The entrepreneurs are adding this opening to their already established establishments in Ubrique and Arcos de la Frontera, together with their partner Luci Haiyan, thus strengthening their presence in Andalusia.

The Marbell Centre Shopping Centre is now undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment that will transform its 20,000 m² spread over four floors, incorporating new entrances, renovated façades, open-plan spaces, large-format operators, logistics areas, leisure, catering and local services. The plan is for the complex to be operational between the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026, becoming a new economic, commercial and urban driver for Marbella.

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